Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a long-term lung disease that makes it hard for you to breathe.

• Most individuals with COPD have a little bit of both chronic bronchitis or emphysema, but usually have more of one condition.
• COPD causes inflammation in the lungs and damage to the lung tissues and airways, which makes it harder for your body to get oxygen and remove carbon dioxide.
• This inflammation then leads to shortness of breath and limits your ability to do things like housework or climbing stairs.

COPD can get worse over time, leading to disability and even death. More than 15 Million Americans live with COPD and it is estimated another 24 Million live with undiagnosed COPD. 210 Million people worldwide have COPD.

The symptoms include shortness of breath, a chronic cough often with a lot of mucus, frequent respiratory infections, fatigue, and wheezing. While many people with COPD get used to these symptoms as “typical” of their condition, you may experience a worsening of your symptoms called an exacerbation or flare-up. Severe flareups can result in hospitalization.

85 to 90 percent of all COPD cases are caused by cigarette smoking. But you can develop COPD even if you've quit smoking or have been exposed to secondhand smoke, chemicals, gases, air pollution, and dust – a higher risk for certain occupations.

COPD can be treated, but some people still experience flareups despite stable therapy. More research is needed so better treatment options can be available for people with COPD in the future.

Take the next step to see if you qualify for local research studies for people with COPD.  But don’t delay — space is limited!